Students have been learning about systems of linear equations, or linear systems, for the past few weeks. We started by discussing what it means for a point to be a solution to a linear equation, and then what it would mean for a point to be a solution to more than one linear equation. Students used their previous knowledge of graphing lines in order to graph 2 linear equations to see where they intersected. Next, students started to learn about ways to solve linear systems algebraically. They started by using the substitution method, in which they solve one of the equations for a variable and replace that variable in the other equation with what it's equivalent to. Next, students worked with the elimination method of solving linear systems, in which they add or subtract the two equations in order to eliminate one of the variables.
To practice solving linear systems using the two algebraic methods, students worked on linear systems 'scavenger hunts.' For this activity, index cards were hung up around the room with a linear system and a solution on each of them. Students solved the linear system on the card, and then searched the room for the index card with their solution on it. They then solved the linear system on that card, and continued the process. This allowed students to determine when they needed to check their work if they couldn't find their answer.
To practice solving linear systems using the two algebraic methods, students worked on linear systems 'scavenger hunts.' For this activity, index cards were hung up around the room with a linear system and a solution on each of them. Students solved the linear system on the card, and then searched the room for the index card with their solution on it. They then solved the linear system on that card, and continued the process. This allowed students to determine when they needed to check their work if they couldn't find their answer.